It is about time we let you in on a little hair hack that has gained ground in recent years, and that is the use of rice water as an extraordinary ingredient for hair growth.
Research has it that inositol, an active ingredient in rice water penetrates damaged hair and repairs it from within while protecting the hair from future damage as well. Rice water is rich in vitamins and minerals that are good for both the skin and hair.
Rice water also has amino acids that strengthen the hair’s roots, hence less breakage which translates into more hair volume. It also makes the hair smooth and shiny. It cures dandruff, acts as a conditioner, removes lice, and reduces split ends as well.
Rice water has been used in ancient times in Japan and by women in the Red Yao tribe of Huangluo, China for hair growth. In recent years, some women across the world use boiled rice water, plain rice water and fermented rice water for this process. All three types do work magic on the hair. However, some experts say that fermented rice water is the most effective since the fermentation of the water produces pitera which is known to enhance cell regeneration and keeps the skin and hair healthy.
Nonetheless, plain rice water has a higher pH than the hair’s pH and the fermented lowers the pH which in turn closes the hair cuticles and protects the hair. Both the plain and fermented rice water are good for the hair. One can, therefore, choose either of them depending on the level of repair and rejuvenation needed.
Fermented rice water has a pungent smell so you can add essential oils of your choice. I use lavender to even out the scent.
Photo: The Zoe Report
How to make boiled rice water
Take a tumbler and fill it with rice (white, brown, basmati, or jasmine rice).
Fill it with more water than you usually use to cook.
Boil the rice for some time. You can either take the excess water that comes on to the top layer or wait till the rice is cooked and then strain the excess water in the tumbler.
This water will be a highly concentrated cloudy liquid.
How to make fermented rice water
Take half a cup of rice and soak it in two cups of water. Keep it aside for 15 to 30 minutes.
Extract the water by straining the rice.
Transfer the liquid you obtain to a jar and leave it there for a day or two at room temperature.
When you notice a sour smell emanating from the jar, stop the fermentation and shift the jar to the fridge.
Add a cup or two of warm water before you use the fermented rice water as it is highly potent and direct use is not recommended.
Rice water can be used after washing the hair. Dab the hair a little and pour your rice water into it. Let it sit for about 5 minutes then rinse out and use your conditioner. If you want to use the rice water as a conditioner, add a few more drops of essential oils like rosemary and let it sit in the hair for 5-10 minutes and rinse.
Try rice water for your hair and send in your results, we would like to know if it worked for you because, although many have tremendous results there are many skeptics out there.
